FAIRFAX CITY, VA — After closing its doors earlier this year, Sugar Mama’s Ice Cream is back in business under new ownership, offering a fresh twist with an infusion of Indian-inspired flavors.
The popular Fairfax City ice cream shop, which has long been a local favorite, was revitalized by Neel Vaidya and Palak Pael, who also run Troy’s Italian Kitchen in Arlington. The couple saw an opportunity to bring the beloved business back to life.
“We saw that the shop had shut down, and so many people missed it. It felt like a great chance for us to step in,” Vaidya said. “We were already familiar with Fairfax, as many of our customers visit our pizzeria. Everything aligned perfectly for us to take over.”
To mark the reopening, the couple hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, joined by Fairfax City officials and members of the local economic development and chamber of commerce.
Tara Bowery, programs manager for the Fairfax City Economic Development Authority (FCED), expressed the community’s excitement about the shop’s return. “When a favorite spot closes, it leaves a void. But the reopening of Sugar Mama’s brought so much joy to residents, who were thrilled to have this special place back,” Bowery said.
The shop’s menu features a variety of classic ice cream flavors, including Banana Cream Pie, Butter Pecan, Mint Chocolate Chip, Pumpkin Spice, and S’mores. Customers can also enjoy vegan and gluten-free versions of some favorites, such as Mint, Pistachio, Coffee, and Strawberry.
However, it’s the Indian-inspired flavors that set Sugar Mama’s apart.
Standout options include:
Chikoo: A sweet fruit similar to pear
Mava Malai: A rich condensed milk flavor with mixed fruits
Rosa Falooda: Rose-flavored ice cream
Pan Masala: A blend of paan leaves and candied rose
Raj Bhog: A saffron and mixed nuts combination
Kesar Pista: A mix of saffron and pistachio
Vaidya, who encouraged adventurous customers to try the Pan Masala flavor, added, “It’s definitely an acquired taste, but for those who love it, it’s a treat. We know it’s bold, but that’s what makes it special.”
In addition to their own creations, Sugar Mama’s will continue serving ice cream from Great Falls Creamery in Gaithersburg, Maryland, and offer gluten-free and vegan options sourced from another local Fairfax creamery.
Fairfax City Mayor Catherine Read emphasized the importance of supporting local, family-owned businesses. “Sugar Mama’s holds a special place in the hearts of many in our city, and we’re thrilled to see the legacy continue under new ownership,” she said.
Sugar Mama’s Ice Cream is now open Monday through Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The shop is located at 11208 Lee Highway in the Jermantown Square shopping center, directly across from Lowe’s.
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